You are here: Home > How do I find the right Jiu-Jitsu gi size?
How do I size a Jiu-Jitsu gi
Sizing a kimono can be difficult if you do not have an experienced person to help you. BJJ uniforms are offered by a standard categorized size rather than inches like a pair of pants or a jacket. Determining the correct size of a kimono is done using the jacket. Place your hand to yours directly to your side as if you at the military “position of attention” and also place your hand straight in front of you like Frankenstein’s monster. The end of your jacket sleeves should rest directly on top of your wrist joint. Remember that although most gis today are pre-shrunk, you will still experience some extent of shrinkage, so error on the side of slightly longer sleeves if it appears you are in between sizes. Larger individuals should also take into account the stomach area when sizing a kimono, to ensure the jacket fully closes around the torso.

Jiu-Jitsu gis are sized by a uniformed category, not inches or centimeters
BJJ gi categories for adults typically come in seven sizes ranging from A0 to A6. The “A” denotes the adults size categories for almost all kimono brands. Sizes A5 and A6 are for exceptionally large individuals and are therefore uncommon. Sizes A2 and A3 are the most common. Size A0 is often worn by large children and women. The common sizes for children’s gis are M0-M4 and there are sometimes even sizes 000, 00, 0, and 1. Some companies denote their children’s sizing with the letter “K” for kids instead of “M.” It is noteworthy that kids sizes are the most variant size between different brands in comparison to adults and women’s BJJ kimonos. As BJJ is quickly growing and more women are taking up the sport, some companies have expanded into women’s sizes. Womens’ gis are denoted with a prefix letter, “F.”

Jiu-Jitsu gi sizing is different by company
Not all manufacturer’s uniforms are comparable in sizing. For example, a Vulkan A2 is comparable to a Combat Corner A1. Every kimono maker should have a sizing chart by height and weight to help you determine which size you are in their brand. The most difficult scenario for determining which size you are is when your body type places you in between Jiu-Jitsu gi size categories. In this case it is bet to consult an experience practitioner or instruction from the academy you are a member of.